Generally speaking, based on my limited knowledge, you should be looking for a 1997 or older bus to remain computer free.
The Cummins is a very popular choice, usually in the 5.9 or 8.3. People here also like the International engines.
The common transmission is the Allison 545, which has no lockers. In older buses a 643 is preferable because this transmission has lockers in 3rd and 4th gears aiding in downhill decent. 1000, 2000 or 3000 series Allisons are excellent too but I think those are in the newer buses with computers.
Here buses age vastly differently depending on what part of the country they spent their years in. We have a rust belt where we try to avoid buying buses from.
As far as miles are concerned, obviously the lower the better. I purchased mine at 167K which would be a fairly average level. Some people get buses with amazingly low miles. Of course you usually pay more for buses with lower miles.
If you can send a link to buses you're considering buying, people here will gladly evaluate it as much as possible from the advertisement and photos. It's amazing what a group of people like this know cumulatively.
Good luck, and welcome.
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Robin
Nobody's Business
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